As the highly anticipated 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) approaches, Shreyas Iyer, captain of the Punjab Kings, is ready to lead his team, bringing with him a wealth of talent, experience, and a confident endorsement from his head coach, the legendary Ricky Ponting.
Speaking during a media interaction, Iyer expressed his gratitude to Ponting, highlighting the significant influence the former Australian captain has had on his career. “He supports everyone. When I worked with him for the first time in the past,” Iyer recalled. “He made me feel like I am a great player and I can easily excel in this format. The confidence he gives a player is of a different level.” Such sentiments reflect the strong rapport the two have built, especially during their past collaboration at the Delhi franchise.
Ponting, too, has not held back in his praises for Iyer, recently tipping him as one of India’s key players heading into the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. In a segment of The ICC Review, Ponting noted, “He's got the game that will stand up to the white-ball formats, especially in that part of the world.”
Iyer’s impressive showing in the Champions Trophy showcased the faith Ponting and many others have in him. He emerged as India's highest run-scorer in the tournament, notching up 273 runs at an average of 54.6, including vital innings of 45 against Australia and 48 against New Zealand during key knockout matches. His adeptness against spin bowling underscored his value as a player, as he found gaps and maintained India's chasing rates in critical situations. Iyer's tactical acumen and skill translated into a pivotal role in India's successful title run.
Now, with the IPL 2025 season on the horizon, Iyer is poised to bring that prowess to Punjab Kings, a team eager to clinch their first title. Having secured Iyer's services for a staggering 26.75 crore in the auction, the franchise has high expectations for its new captain.
Ponting, who officially took on the head coach role at Punjab Kings, expressed his confidence in Iyer’s leadership abilities. “He’s a great human being. He is an IPL-winning captain (with KKR in 2024). We could not have asked for more,” Ponting stated. His comments reflect the trust he places in Iyer, who joined the training camp just days before the season kickoff and is already making his mark as a leader. “But as I said, I could not have been happier,” Ponting noted, emphasizing the positive dynamics surrounding the team.
The Punjab Kings have amassed a formidable roster for the upcoming season, bolstered not only by Iyer but also by notable players such as Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Josh Inglis, Lockie Ferguson, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Arshdeep Singh. This mix of experience and talent is aimed at breaking their title drought and generating a competitive edge in the tournament.
As the IPL approaches, the alliance between Iyer and Ponting will be closely scrutinized, with fans looking forward to the blend of strategic insight and enthusiastic leadership. Iyer’s previous accolades, combined with Ponting’s esteemed coaching legacy, present a promising outlook for the Punjab Kings.
This season not only puts Iyer's leadership to the test but also reaffirms the impact of mentorship in sports. Athletes often speak about the climate of support and encouragement, a sentiment Iyer echoed about Ponting, which can be pivotal in high-stakes competitions like the IPL.
As the days progress leading up to their first match, experts and fans alike will watch closely how Iyer's newfound leadership manifests on the field. With the experience of last year’s success, Iyer’s and Ponting’s affiliation may foster a culture of resilience and achievement for the Punjab Kings this IPL season.
In the world of cricket, the synergy between players and coaches can define seasons. With Iyer at the helm and Ponting steering guidance from the sidelines, expectations are understandably high as the Punjab Kings gear up for what they hope will be a historic IPL 2025.
